This fall, fans can enjoy a more traditional atmosphere at University of West Florida football games with the addition of the inaugural Argo Athletic Band.

The band will play in the stands at all UWF home football games.

"We have received tremendous support from community members for the development of this athletic band." said Sheila Dunn, chair of the UWF Department of Music, in a press release. "It will be a thrill to perform our new fight song live at football and basketball games to help UWF fans and supporters cheer our teams on to victory."

By creating the band, the university is building on the success of the football program during its first two seasons to establish more traditions and enhance school spirit on campus and in the community.

Previously, a pep band played at UWF basketball and volleyball games. The size of the band will increase significantly to appear at UWF football games and game day activities.

Dunn said band organizers had hoped to get between 30 to 50 people to sign up for the band. Currently, 69 students have signed up. Band camp for members is Aug. 20 to Aug. 24.

The Argo Athletic Band is open to students from all majors and participants will receive a $250 stipend.

Dunn expects the band to grow over the years. She said during the first year, the band will perform from the stands wearing Polo shirts and khakis and a UWF hat. She said she expects to convert the band to a marching band by year two or three, with more traditional band uniforms. Dunn said there are also plans to add a color guard by year two or three.

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